The purpose of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law ("ABC Law") is to carry out the policies of the State of New York with respect to alcoholic beverages. What is the legal drinking age in New York?The legal age to consume alcoholic beverages is 21. Alcohol may be sold for on-premises consumption during the following hours in New York County: Weekdays: AM - AM. Sundays: AM - AM. Underage Alcohol Possession. In New York State, if you're under 21 years old, it is a violation of the law to possess alcohol with the intent to consume. In New York State, a Class A Misdemeanor is committed when an alcoholic beverage is given to a person under the age of 21. This license allows liquor, wine, cider, and beer to be sold for consumption at a restaurant, tavern, nightclub, theater, or other facility. Section 10-125 (2b) - "Consumption of Alcohol on Streets Prohibited" ( also known as "Open Container Violation" or "Consumption of Alcohol in Public").